Synopsis

Mae perform "Embers and Envelopes" in a stylized visual collage that moves between individual and full-band shots. Their performances are layered with gently animated images of architecture, guitars, envelopes, cardinals, and cautionary signs. The imagery reflects the song's themes of communication, regret, reconciliation, and moving forward after damaged relationships. Rather than using a fast, heavily edited approach, the video maintains an easy, reflective pace that follows the song's melodic and emotionally restrained character.

Factoids & Trivia

• The video campaign was serviced to music programmers in January 2004, following the release of Mae's debut album, "Destination: Beautiful," in February 2003.

• Its animation combines photographed or illustrated objects with the band's performance footage. The recurring envelopes connect directly with the song's emphasis on writing feelings down as a way to reconcile.

• Cardinals appear among the animated imagery, a visual reference to Virginia's state bird and a subtle nod to Mae's Norfolk, Virginia origins.

• "Embers and Envelopes" was the first song written by Dave Elkins and Jacob Marshall for what became Mae. They began developing it in Marshall's living room.

• The song was included on Tooth & Nail Records video compilations, including "The Nail DVD (Tooth & Nail Video Volume 9)," released in 2005.

• A performance of the song also appears in Mae's "From Toledo to Tokyo" video release, which documents the band's touring years and includes footage from its first Japanese tour.

• Mae later recorded a new version of "Embers and Envelopes" for the band's "Destination: Beautiful" five-year anniversary project.